The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has revealed that he once turned down a ₦5 million bribe during the military government of late General Sani Abacha.
The monarch made the disclosure on Saturday while celebrating his 23rd year on the throne. He explained that the incident happened when former Lagos State governor, Michael Otedola, was detained under the Abacha administration.
Oba Akiolu said he appealed to the authorities at the time to help secure the release of Otedola’s international passport, insisting that the military government needed greater acceptance from the public.
According to him, shortly after the passport was released, a representative approached him with an offer of ₦5 million as appreciation, but he rejected the money.
The monarch stressed that his actions were driven by integrity and the fear of God.
“It is not about money. Whatever you do, do it with the fear of God and continue praying to Him,” he said.
Oba Akiolu added that honesty, discipline and integrity remain essential qualities for leadership and public service.
Reflecting on his 32 years in the Nigeria Police Force, the monarch described policing as a noble profession when carried out with sincerity and accountability.
He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that the Federal Government’s economic and infrastructure reforms would eventually yield positive results.
According to him, although the country may be facing challenges, the reforms would succeed in the long run.Oba Akiolu Recounts Rejecting ₦5m Gift During Abacha Regime
The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has revealed that he once turned down a ₦5 million bribe during the military government of late General Sani Abacha.
The monarch made the disclosure on Saturday while celebrating his 23rd year on the throne. He explained that the incident happened when former Lagos State governor, Michael Otedola, was detained under the Abacha administration.
Oba Akiolu said he appealed to the authorities at the time to help secure the release of Otedola’s international passport, insisting that the military government needed greater acceptance from the public.
According to him, shortly after the passport was released, a representative approached him with an offer of ₦5 million as appreciation, but he rejected the money.
The monarch stressed that his actions were driven by integrity and the fear of God.
“It is not about money. Whatever you do, do it with the fear of God and continue praying to Him,” he said.
Oba Akiolu added that honesty, discipline and integrity remain essential qualities for leadership and public service.
Reflecting on his 32 years in the Nigeria Police Force, the monarch described policing as a noble profession when carried out with sincerity and accountability.
He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that the Federal Government’s economic and infrastructure reforms would eventually yield positive results.
According to him, although the country may be facing challenges, the reforms would succeed in the long run.
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